The
International Game Developers Association (IGDA) recognized legendary game developer Gunpei Yokoi
for the innovative work he produced during his career. Yokoi was
honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Game Developers
Choice Awards ceremony on March 6, 2003 during the Game Developers
Conference (GDC) in San Jose, California.
In a career spanning nearly three decades, Yokoi is best known as
the creator of the Nintendo Game Boy. Overwhelmingly popular since
its launch, the Game Boy and its successors have sold more than 142
million units worldwide. During his early years at Nintendo, Yokoi
led the company's entry into the video game space, creating the Game
& Watch -- a credit card-sized video game that introduced the
cross-shaped directional pad. He went on to collaborate with Shigeru
Miyamoto to design arcade classics such as "Donkey Kong,"
"Mario Brothers," and "Metroid."
In 1996, Yokoi founded Koto Laboratory, while continuing to consult
for Nintendo. Tragically, Yokoi was killed in a traffic accident the
following year. "Gunpei Yokoi is the forefather of the portable
video game industry," said Jason Della Rocca, program director,
IGDA. "His innovation and creativity are sorely missed in our
community. We're proud to recognize Yokoi-san and his work with the
Lifetime Achievement Award."
Last year's recipient,
Yuji Naka, presented the award, which Yokoi's family accepted on his
behalf. "To have a life's work recognized by other game
creators is the most meaningful honor one could receive," said
Yuji Naka, President of Sega's Sonic Team.